How to Prepare Your Storage Tank for an API 653 Inspection

A storage tank inspection under API 653 standards is a critical process for ensuring the safety, integrity, and compliance of aboveground storage tanks. Thorough preparation streamlines the inspection, minimizes downtime, and facilitates a successful outcome.

Proper planning allows the inspector to conduct a comprehensive assessment and helps tank owners address potential issues proactively. The goal is a smooth and efficient evaluation according to the requirements of 653 API.

Understand the Inspection Scope:

First, review the tank’s history and previous inspection reports. Identify the specific type of inspection required external, internal, or a comprehensive in-service or out-of-service assessment.

The inspection scope often depends on factors like the tank’s age, service history, and the last inspection findings. Knowing what the inspector will examine provides a clear roadmap for your preparation tasks and helps you allocate appropriate resources.

Ensure Safe Access and Entry:

For internal inspections, preparing the tank for safe entry is paramount. This involves complete isolation, emptying, cleaning, and purging the tank to remove all product, vapors, and sludge.

Establish a confined space entry permit and ensure adequate ventilation. Install proper scaffolding, lighting, and safe access ladders or manways. The inspector requires clear, safe passage to all internal surfaces, including the tank floor, shell, and roof.

Gather Essential Documentation:

Compile a comprehensive documentation package for the inspector. This should include the tank’s original construction drawings and data sheets, records of all repairs and modifications, past inspection reports with thickness readings, and a detailed service history noting stored products.

Maintain logs of cathodic protection system operation and any corrosion monitoring data. Organized, accessible records demonstrate diligent management and aid the inspector’s review.

Conduct a Preliminary External Review:

Before the inspector arrives, perform your own visual assessment. Check the tank’s exterior for obvious signs of corrosion, coating failure, leaks, or foundation issues. Ensure the tank shell shows no signs of buckling or settlement.

Verify that all nozzles, manways, and vents are in good condition. Clear the area around the tank base of debris, vegetation, and equipment to allow for a complete external examination and ultrasonic testing (UT) scanning.

Coordinate Logistics and Personnel:

Schedule the inspection during a planned shutdown and communicate the timeline to all relevant departments. Assign a knowledgeable site contact person to accompany the inspector, answer operational questions, and provide logistical support.

Ensure necessary utilities, like electrical power for testing equipment, are available. Have certified welders and contractors on standby in case the inspector identifies items requiring immediate repair.